Decking Tiles
Decking tiles in softwood, hardwood and WPC composite
Decking tiles are a practical and attractive way to create a timber-look floor on a patio, balcony, roof terrace or other suitable outdoor area. Their modular format makes them an excellent alternative to long decking boards, particularly where quick installation, flexible layouts or easy replacement of individual sections are important.
At Intergard, decking tiles are available in different materials, including pressure-treated softwood, durable hardwood and WPC composite. Depending on the product, you can choose from different sizes and construction methods. This makes it easy to select a deck tile to suit the appearance, maintenance level and installation method required for your outdoor project.
Wooden decking tiles provide the warm, natural appearance of timber, while composite tiles offer a low-maintenance alternative. Larger timber tiles are commonly installed on a supporting substructure, whereas certain smaller WPC tiles feature an integrated interlocking or click system. Always check the individual product specifications before installation.
What are decking tiles?
Decking tiles are modular square sections used to create an outdoor floor. Traditional wooden decking tiles consist of several timber slats fixed together to form one tile. Depending on their construction, they may be supported by timber or composite beams underneath.
Some WPC decking tiles use an integrated plastic drainage base with connecting edges. These types can often be joined directly together over a suitable hard, flat and well-drained surface.
Because the tiles are modular, they are especially useful for smaller patios, balconies and areas where conventional decking boards would require more cutting and construction work.
Types of decking tiles
Softwood decking tiles
Softwood decking tiles provide an affordable way to create a natural timber floor outdoors. Pressure-treated softwood is protected to improve its resistance to moisture, fungi and insects, making it suitable for many garden and patio applications.
Softwood has a lighter and more traditional appearance than most tropical hardwoods and can be combined with other timber products such as pine decking and Douglas decking.
Hardwood decking tiles
Hardwood decking tiles are a premium option for outdoor terraces and patios. Dense hardwood offers excellent mechanical strength, a substantial feel underfoot and an attractive natural appearance.
Hardwood is particularly suitable where durability and appearance are priorities. As with other exterior hardwood products, the timber will naturally weather and gradually develop a silver-grey colour when it is left untreated.
For larger timber terraces, see our range of hardwood decking.
WPC composite decking tiles
WPC decking tiles combine wood-based material with polymers to create a durable, low-maintenance outdoor flooring product. They are resistant to moisture and do not require the regular oiling associated with natural hardwood.
Certain WPC tiles are supplied with an integrated plastic base and interlocking system. These tiles can be connected quickly without fixing through the visible surface, provided they are installed over a suitable flat, solid and well-drained base.
If you prefer full-length composite boards, see our composite decking.
Benefits of decking tiles
- Modular design: practical for patios, balconies and irregularly shaped areas
- Choice of materials: available in softwood, hardwood and WPC composite
- Natural appearance: timber tiles create a warm and attractive outdoor floor
- Low-maintenance options: WPC requires considerably less maintenance than natural timber
- Different sizes: available in various formats depending on the product
- Flexible layouts: square tiles can be arranged in different directions to create decorative patterns
- Individual replacement: damaged tiles can often be replaced without renewing the complete floor
- Alternative to long boards: useful where conventional decking boards are less practical
- Suitable for DIY: many systems can be installed by experienced DIY users
Where can decking tiles be used?
Outdoor decking tiles can be used in a wide range of locations, provided that the surface and supporting construction are suitable. Typical applications include:
- garden patios
- balconies
- courtyards
- suitable roof terraces
- garden seating areas
- walkways and lightly trafficked outdoor areas
- areas around swimming pools where the selected product is suitable for that application
When installing decking tiles on a balcony or roof terrace, always check the load-bearing capacity, waterproofing and drainage of the existing structure before starting work.
Which decking tile size should you choose?
Decking tiles are available in several sizes. The best option depends on the dimensions of the area, the construction method and the visual effect you want to achieve.
- 30x30 cm: compact format frequently used for interlocking WPC deck tiles
- 50x50 cm: versatile size suitable for patios, balconies and garden areas
- 90x90 or 100x100 cm: larger format that covers substantial surfaces using fewer individual tiles
Smaller tiles are particularly convenient for balconies and areas requiring more cuts, while larger tiles can be efficient for open terraces. Always check the exact dimensions and construction requirements of the individual product before ordering.
How to install decking tiles on a hard surface
Traditional timber decking tiles that require a substructure should be installed over a firm, stable and well-drained surface. The timber construction should not remain in continuous direct contact with standing water.
- Prepare the base: make sure the existing surface is stable, clean and sufficiently level.
- Check drainage: rainwater must be able to drain away freely beneath and around the decking.
- Use suitable supports: where required, place rubber or plastic supports beneath the construction beams to separate them from the base.
- Position the construction beams: distribute them at the centres required for the chosen decking tiles.
- Provide adequate support: make sure each tile is supported evenly and cannot flex excessively.
- Install the tiles: fix each tile to the supporting structure using the appropriate fixing method.
- Allow expansion gaps: for traditional timber tiles, approximately 5 mm can be used as a general guide unless the product instructions specify otherwise.
- Check the finished floor: make sure the tiles are stable and that water can drain away correctly.
Supporting 50x50 cm and 100x100 cm decking tiles
For traditional timber systems, 50x50 cm decking tiles may typically require support across three construction beams. Larger tiles of approximately 90x90 or 100x100 cm may require support across four beams. The exact number and position of supports should always follow the construction of the individual tile.
Suitable hardwood construction beams are also available from Intergard for suitable decking constructions.
How to install decking tiles over soft ground
Traditional wooden decking tiles should not be laid directly onto soil, grass or another unstable soft surface. A suitable supporting base should first be created to keep the timber away from direct ground contact and to provide a stable, well-drained construction.
- Remove weeds and vegetation: clear the complete area before starting construction.
- Level the ground: create an even and stable base.
- Lay a weed-control membrane: this helps reduce vegetation growth beneath the deck.
- Create firm support points: place suitable paving slabs or similar stable supports over the prepared ground.
- Install the construction beams: position the beams on the support points rather than directly on the soil.
- Fit the decking tiles: securely attach the modules to the supporting construction.
- Allow suitable gaps: leave approximately 5 mm between traditional timber tiles unless the specific installation instructions state otherwise.
Do interlocking WPC decking tiles need construction beams?
Not always. Some interlocking WPC decking tiles have an integrated plastic drainage base and are designed to click directly together over a suitable existing surface. In this case, a separate timber substructure is generally not required.
The existing surface must nevertheless be firm, reasonably level and able to drain water effectively. These tiles should not simply be laid directly onto loose soil or unstable ground.
Because installation systems differ, always follow the instructions for the specific WPC tile you purchase.
How to maintain hardwood decking tiles
Hardwood is naturally durable, but regular cleaning helps keep an outdoor floor looking its best. Remove leaves, dirt and organic debris periodically and clean the surface using water and a suitable brush.
Avoid unnecessarily aggressive cleaning products and methods that can damage or roughen the timber surface. The frequency of cleaning depends on the location, weather conditions and how quickly dirt and organic material accumulate.
Do hardwood decking tiles need oiling?
Oiling hardwood is primarily a matter of appearance. Untreated hardwood naturally changes colour when exposed to sunlight and weather and gradually develops a silver-grey patina.
If you prefer to retain more of the original warm timber colour, an appropriate hardwood oil can be applied. Make sure the timber is clean and completely dry before treatment, and always follow the instructions supplied with the oil.
Oiling is therefore not necessary simply to prevent hardwood from turning grey. The greying process is a natural colour change and does not by itself mean the timber is deteriorating.
How to maintain WPC decking tiles
WPC composite decking tiles require relatively little maintenance. Routine cleaning with water, a soft brush and, where necessary, a mild detergent is normally sufficient.
Unlike natural timber, WPC does not require hardwood oil or similar timber treatments. Leaves and other organic material should still be removed regularly, particularly from damp or shaded locations.
Decking tiles or decking boards?
Both decking tiles and full-length boards can be used to create an attractive outdoor floor. The best choice depends on the size and shape of the area, the desired appearance and the preferred method of installation.
- Decking tiles: ideal for modular layouts, balconies and smaller or irregular areas
- Decking boards: suitable for creating long, continuous lines across larger terraces
- Large decking tiles: cover broad areas using relatively few individual sections
- WPC click tiles: especially convenient for upgrading an existing suitable hard surface
- Natural timber: offers an authentic wood appearance that naturally changes with age
- Composite: offers lower maintenance and consistent material properties
If you prefer conventional boards, browse our complete range of decking, including hardwood decking, pine decking and composite decking.
Buy decking tiles from Intergard
Looking to buy decking tiles for a patio, balcony or garden project? Intergard offers decking tiles in different materials, sizes and finishes, allowing you to choose a solution that suits both the appearance of your outdoor area and the amount of maintenance you prefer.
Choose pressure-treated softwood for an affordable natural finish, hardwood for a premium and durable timber surface, or WPC composite when low maintenance is an important consideration.
Trade customers, resellers and businesses purchasing decking tiles by pallet or full truckload can request a commercial quotation via our contact page.
Frequently asked questions about decking tiles
What are decking tiles?
Decking tiles are modular square sections used to create an outdoor floor. Timber versions usually consist of several wooden slats fixed together, while WPC versions may also include an integrated plastic drainage and interlocking base.
What are the best decking tiles for outdoor use?
That depends on your priorities. Pressure-treated softwood is an affordable natural option, hardwood offers excellent durability and a premium appearance, while WPC composite requires less maintenance. The best choice therefore depends on budget, appearance, location and maintenance requirements.
Can decking tiles be laid directly on concrete?
Certain decking tile systems can be installed over a suitable concrete surface, provided it is stable, sufficiently level and drains properly. Traditional timber tiles may require a supporting substructure, while some interlocking WPC tiles are designed for direct installation over a suitable hard surface.
Can decking tiles be laid directly on soil?
Traditional timber decking tiles should not be laid directly on soil or grass. Create a stable supporting base first so that the tiles remain level and the timber does not stay in constant contact with damp ground.
Can decking tiles be used on a balcony?
Yes, decking tiles can be suitable for balconies provided that the existing floor is stable, has adequate drainage and can support the additional weight. Always check the requirements of both the tile system and the balcony construction.
Do decking tiles need a subframe?
It depends on the product. Larger traditional timber decking tiles often require construction beams underneath. Certain interlocking WPC deck tiles have their own supporting plastic base and can be laid directly over a suitable hard surface.
How much space should be left between wooden decking tiles?
For traditional timber tiles, approximately 5 mm can be used as a general guide unless the manufacturer's installation instructions specify a different gap. Adequate spacing helps drainage and allows for natural movement of the timber.
Do hardwood decking tiles turn grey?
Yes. Natural hardwood gradually develops a silver-grey appearance when exposed to sunlight and weather. This is a normal ageing process and does not automatically indicate deterioration of the timber.
Do hardwood decking tiles need oil?
Not necessarily. Hardwood can be left untreated and allowed to weather naturally. If you want to retain more of its original colour, an appropriate hardwood oil can be applied to clean and completely dry timber.
Are WPC decking tiles maintenance-free?
WPC tiles are low maintenance rather than completely maintenance-free. They still need occasional cleaning to remove dirt, leaves and organic deposits, but they normally do not require sanding or hardwood oil.
What is better: decking tiles or decking boards?
Decking tiles are particularly useful for balconies, smaller terraces and modular layouts. Full-length decking boards are often preferred for larger areas where long, continuous lines are desired. The best solution depends on the size, shape and construction of the area.